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Editor’s Note: The skill-testing API (beta) that supports entity resolution and dialog management is now available.

We are happy to announce the next evolution of our testing tools for Alexa skill developers. Now you can use the Test Simulator (Beta) to test your Alexa skill without owning a device. The new simulator expands existing testing capabilities such as text input, JSON debugging, and visual display by adding features like the ability to test multi-turn conversation, entity resolution, dialog management, and more.

New Capabilities with the Test Simulator (Beta)

With the new voice input capability, you can validate Alexa’s understanding of the spoken word and how the skill responds. The new device event log shows the directives that are sent to the devices, which allows you to understand how the skill interacts with the device.

Additionally, the new dialog style UI pattern helps you keep track of the interaction with Alexa and allows you to click back to previous interaction bubbles to inspect relevant debugging information.

Example of testing a skill that uses the Dialog.Delegate directive in the test simulator

To further improve programmatic automated testing, we are also enhancing the skill-testing API to support features such as entity resolution and dialog management. These enhancements will roll out in the next week. Learn more about the skill testing API and how to use the CLI with your skills.

Start Testing Your Alexa Skills Today

As of today, the new Test Simulator (Beta) is available for Alexa skill testing. The visual display testing capability for Echo Spot will be available next year. Learn more and start testing your skills for Echo devices.

Connect with the Alexa community on our developer forums for more tips on skill testing and certification. We can't wait to see what you build.

Build a New Skill, Earn Developer Perks

Bring your big idea to life with Alexa and earn perks through our tiered rewards system. US developers, publish a skill in December and receive an Alexa developer hoodie. If 100 customers use your skill in its first 30 days in the Alexa Skills Store, you can also apply to receive a free Echo Dot to help you make Alexa even smarter. If you need inspiration, consider creating a holiday-themed skill to get into the holiday spirit. If you're not in the US, check out our promotions in the UK, Germany, and India. Learn more about our promotion and start building today.